This Common Household Chemical Could Be Killing Cats

Thyroid Problems Cats

A chemical threat lies hidden in millions of American homes, and top government scientists believe it could be killing cats.

Scientists examined the places where indoor cats spend their time, especially on furniture and the floor. A groundbreaking government study found “significant association” between the cat illness and certain flame retardants.

The chemical, in one variation or another, is added to all sorts of things found in nearly every American home, including foam padding, carpet pads, appliance chords, electronics, children’s clothes and more.

At precisely the time flame retardants became heavily used in the 70s and 80s, indoor cats started dying of thyroid problems. Now those flame retardants are widely viewed with concern about unintended effects.